This is just about the same time as last year with both years being later than average. 2010 saw a cool and damp summer causing the delay in ripening and a fairly heavy loss of some varieties in some locations. 2010 was also a tough economic climate for growers to sell their grapes even though the crop size was down.
The 2011 season was delayed by a wet spring but since that time conditions have been good. Crop size is down from a couple years ago but quality should be high -- assuming Mother Nature continues to cooperate. Also, it appears growers are having a much easier time selling their grapes this year.
The trickle of grapes that started yesterday should turn into an avalanche in a month.
Press Democrat article
Thanks for the update! I don't usually visit but was wondering how the 2011 harvest season was going because my husband and I are planning a trip for late October. I hope the weather stays good so that we can all enjoy the wines from a superb vintage in a couple years. I do love Sonoma wines!
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